Expert: Doctor Early Options - 8/8/2009

Question
Hello Dr Joan,    August 8, 2009

First of all I really appreciate that you are available to answer questions related to abortion/pregnancy and women's service.  

I am in the US - so I am familiar with the rules and regulations surrounding abortion.

But my question is this - I am 40 and I last began my period on June 21 - I have never been pregnant... I had sex on July 8 - but with a condom - with no issues with the condom - but I have yet to have my period... I have taken 5 home pregnancy tests all have been negative... I have tried to get an appointment with my GYN - only to find that she has taken an emergency leave... but the covering dr can see me Sept 29... I have have had spotting... but not like my regular periods... Could the OTC Pregnancy test be false negative?

thank you

Jeanne

Answer
Dear Jeanne,
It is common and normal to miss a period, especially as we enter our 40's, so that is the most likely explanation.  Missed periods can be caused by changes in life, weight changes,or stress, or just changes in hormones.  Pregnancy tests are pretty reliable these days, but I have found the pregnancy tests with two lines to be the most reliable.  Digital pregnancy tests (that read words like "pregnant" or "not pregnant") are less reliable.  The most reliable pregnancy test (100%) is a blood test, and you can get this at any lab.  

Do you have pregnancy symptoms?  If you have breast tenderness, increasing nausea, moodiness, I would not wait to see the doctor.  You can call the doctor's office and tell them your situation, and they can simply order you a blood pregnancy test in their office or a lab that is convenient for you.

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City